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Definitions

second string

NOUN
group of substitute players
Synonyms
WEAK
JV bench benchwarmers junior varsity reserves second team substitutes
Antonyms
WEAK
first string
ADJECTIVE
second-rate
Synonyms
STRONG
inferior junior lesser lower minor minor-league small-time subordinate

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Uncapped wicketkeeper-batsman Khawaja Nafay is also included in the squad after his impressive show with Pakistan's second string team in the last two years.

From Barron's • Dec. 28, 2025

“I basically played second string at ‘SC,” Ardell said.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 3, 2025

But scientists found niobium difficult to engineer as a core qubit component, and so it was relegated to the second string on Team Superconducting Qubit.

From Science Daily • Feb. 26, 2024

Fill in intermittently for the starters or the second string during practice when they need a break.

From Seattle Times • Jan. 12, 2024

Three span later I was trying to play Waiting While it Rains when a second string broke.

From "The Name of the Wind" by Patrick Rothfuss